Who gets fined when a passenger doesn't wear a seat belt, the driver or the passenger?
2 Answers
Passengers not wearing seat belts will result in fines for the driver. Introduction to seat belts: A seat belt is a vehicle safety device that secures the passenger's body to the seat, protecting both the driver and passengers from harmful movements caused by collisions or sudden stops. How seat belts work: They reduce the likelihood of death or serious injury in traffic collisions by decreasing the secondary impact force that poses internal collision risks. They also ensure proper positioning of the driver and passengers to maximize the effectiveness of airbags (if equipped) and prevent occupants from being ejected from the vehicle or experiencing rollovers during a collision.
When it comes to understanding traffic rules, the driver is usually the responsible party. Laws in many places stipulate that drivers have the obligation to ensure all passengers buckle up. If passengers fail to do so, the police will directly fine the driver rather than the passengers. For instance, in most U.S. states, drivers may face fines ranging from $100 to $200; in the UK and Australia, similar rules can result in penalty points and fines. As the person in control of the vehicle, the driver must remind and check seatbelt status before departure. Neglecting this not only leads to financial penalties but also increases the risk of injury in accidents. When I drive, I always make it a habit to confirm everyone’s safety before setting off—protecting all occupants is key. Seatbelts are designed as life-saving tools, significantly reducing ejection risks during emergency braking or collisions, which is why these rules exist for good reason.
